Can Tho is a fantastic base for exploring the Mekong Delta. Its strategic location makes it easy to access lush waterways, vibrant markets, and scenic countryside in just a day. What makes Can Tho stand out for full-day tours is the variety—from active cycling adventures and cultural cooking classes to peaceful boat rides and luxury yacht trips—each offering a different way to experience this fertile region. For example, the Full-Day Experience in Mekong Cycling and Authentic Home Cooking combines both physical activity and culinary discovery, perfect for travelers who want a hands-on, immersive experience. You can even learn to prepare traditional dishes, making the trip memorable long after you leave.
While all these tours deliver a unique taste of the Mekong, they cater to different interests and energy levels. Whether you prefer exploring on two wheels, gliding through waterways, or relaxing on a yacht, there’s something on this list for you.
Quick Overview
This guide features four top full-day tours in Can Tho, each with standout features:
- A local-led cycling and cooking experience that combines culture, cuisine, and adventure. Full-Day Experience in Mekong Cycling and Authentic Home Cooking
- A nature-focused tour exploring Tra Su Forest, with boat rides, wildlife viewing, and temple visits. (Tra Su Forest From Can Tho City)
- Another Tra Su Forest tour emphasizing guided exploration and panoramic views. (Tra Su Forest Full Day Tour From Can Tho city)
- An upmarket yacht trip offering a luxurious day with floating markets and scenic farm visits. (Can Tho: Hau River Full-Day Luxury Yacht Trip with Lunch)
Below, each tour is examined in detail to help you decide which is best suited for your interests and travel style.
1. Full-Day Experience in Mekong Cycling and Authentic Home Cooking
This full-day experience is perfect if you want a personalized, authentic taste of the Mekong Delta. Led by a local who wants to show off the region’s hidden spots and local dishes, this tour mixes cycling with home-cooked meals. You’ll pedal through rice fields and quiet lanes, discovering areas most travelers never see.
What makes this tour stand out is the emphasis on cultural exchange. The host is passionate about sharing the delta’s culinary traditions and offbeat locations. You’ll visit local markets, learn about ingredients, and then cook traditional dishes together—think fresh herbs, fish, and rice noodles. The 7-hour itinerary offers a balance of activity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and connect with local life.
Rated 5.0/5 based on 69 reviews, the tour offers exceptional value at $60 per person, making it affordable without sacrificing authenticity. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hands-on, immersive experience. Some might find the cycling challenging if unfit, but the route is generally easy.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a genuine, community-focused adventure that combines physical activity with culinary creativity, this tour hits the mark.
2. Full Day Tour Tra Su Forest From Can Tho City
For nature lovers, this trip offers a full day exploring Tra Su Forest in An Giang Province, just a short drive from Can Tho. The tour includes boat rides, visits to Ba Chua Xu temple, and ends with a sunset view from Sam mountain. You’ll be picked up from your hotel, making the logistics straightforward.
What makes this tour special is its focus on wildlife and scenic waterways. The boat rides through the Melaleuca cajuput forest give you a chance to see storks, egrets, turtles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The observation tower offers a panoramic view of the 850-hectare forest—a peaceful respite from busy city life.
This tour is rated 5/5 based on a single review, and priced at $125 per person, it’s a tad pricier but justifies the cost with its immersive natural experience. It’s suited for travelers who want to observe wildlife, enjoy tranquil landscapes, and include a cultural stop at the temple.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers wanting a full day immersed in the greenery of the Mekong region.
$125 per person
3. Tra Su Forest Full Day Tour From Can Tho city
This guided tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Tra Su Forest, emphasizing wildlife watching and learning about local ecosystems. You’ll be taken through picturesque canals on a boat, with chances to spot kingfishers, storks, and turtles. The tour includes an observation tower for sweeping views of the canopy and a visit to local villages.
A highlight is the detailed explanations from a local guide, who shares stories about the cultural importance of the forest to the Mekong Delta. The tour is priced at $106 per person, offering good value given the depth of experience.
Many reviews praise the natural beauty and the relaxed pace, making it suitable for families or those who prefer gentle exploration. It’s less about active exertion and more about appreciating the calm waterways and rich biodiversities of the forest.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, educational day immersed in nature and wildlife.
$106 per person
4. Can Tho: Hau River Full-Day Luxury Yacht Trip with Lunch
At the top end of the spectrum, this luxury yacht trip offers an 8-hour private experience exploring the Cai Rang Floating Market and nearby fish farms. The journey includes sailing on a private yacht, a delicious Vietnamese lunch, and visits to local scenic farms.
What sets this tour apart is the luxury factor—small-group or private, with personalized service and a focus on comfort and exclusivity. It’s ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting an indulgent, stress-free day. The highlight is the chance to see floating market vendors in action, as well as visit a floating fish farm, which offers a rare glimpse into local aquaculture.
With a price tag of $534 per person, this tour is not cheap, but it provides a bespoke experience that few can match. It’s rated without reviews but offers a level of comfort and access that’s hard to beat.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized Mekong Delta experience with premium amenities.
$534 per person
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your budget, interests, and activity level. If you’re passionate about culture and cooking, the cycling and home cooking experience offers an authentic, engaging day. For nature enthusiasts, the Tra Su Forest tours provide a peaceful, wildlife-rich atmosphere—whether you prefer a guided exploration or a boat-focused adventure.
Travelers with a luxury streak or celebrating a special occasion should consider the luxury yacht trip. It offers the chance to enjoy the Mekong Delta in style, with premium service and scenery.
When booking, think about seasonality—the dry season from November to April typically gives the best conditions for outdoor activities and boat rides. Also, consider your fitness level; active tours like cycling require some endurance, whereas wildlife tours are more relaxed.
Final Thoughts
Can Tho offers a range of full-day experiences that suit different tastes and budgets. For a hands-on cultural adventure, the Mekong cycling and home cooking tour is excellent. If nature and wildlife are your priorities, the Tra Su Forest trips are hard to beat for their serene beauty and birdwatching opportunities. And for those looking to indulge in comfort and exclusivity, the luxury yacht trip provides a memorable, high-end way to explore.
To make the most of your trip, book early—especially the popular tours during peak dry season. No matter which you choose, each option promises a rich, memorable taste of the Mekong Delta’s living landscape.